In Ireland, frozen food specialist Iceland has acquired seven previously franchised stores in the Republic of Ireland.
The Deeside-based retailer did not disclose the terms with previous owner AIM Group, but said it is planning further expansion in Ireland.
Iceland chairman and chief executive Malcolm Walker said: “We see great opportunities for growth in Ireland and taking direct control of these stores will help us to ensure that we offer the best value and the highest standards of service to our valued Irish customers.
"It will also help us to accelerate the expansion of the business, creating new Irish jobs, more opportunities for Irish suppliers and making our unique branded products available to more people throughout the country."
Mr Walker said he was pleased to be returning the Irish business to an owned, rather than franchised model, which has been the case since 2009.
"Now is the right time for us to return, as part of our international growth strategy that aims to make Iceland the world’s number one frozen food brand.”
